The Unheard Petrol Price Crisis in India: A Silent Protest Among the Masses
The ongoing petrol price crisis in India has sparked a significant debate. It raises the question: why aren't Indians making a larger uproar as petrol prices soar, especially since they were accustomed to protesting when prices were lower?
Why the Silence Amidst Unprecedented Fuel Hikes?
Is it possible that petrol price in India has come back under 70 rupees? asks a concerned citizen, addressing the current fluctuation in fuel costs. This statement, while posing a valid inquiry, carries a mix of hope and skepticism, prompting a closer look at the underpinnings of this topic.
The current situation is exacerbated by the heavy taxation on fuel in India, which stands at a staggering 260 percent. During the lockdown period, international fuel prices declined, but this drop was offset by a rise in taxation in India. As a result, despite a temporary decrease in fuel prices internationally, India continues to face a dramatic rise in the local cost of petrol.
Economic Impact and the Middle Class's Response
The Indian economy heavily taxes fuel, which disproportionately affects the middle and lower-income segments of the population. When fuel prices were at a more manageable 70 rupees, public protests were commonplace. However, now that prices have surged above 100 rupees, the silence from the masses is profound. High-income individuals may appear unconcerned, but for 80-90 percent of the population, these price hikes are a significant burden. The essence of this economic struggle is further compounded by the way other essential goods and services are priced.
Efforts to bring fuel prices back under 100 rupees seem optimistic. Both the central and state governments are advised to decrease taxes on fuel. However, the political discourse has become more politicized, with one political party justifying the tax while another parties wait to protest when it is too late. The inherent silence from the public is often misunderstood as apathy. In reality, it stems from a pervasive awareness that protests rarely result in meaningful change.
Implications of Rising Fuel Prices
As fuel prices rise, the cost of other basic necessities like milk and groceries also increases. The political sphere remains relatively silent, with political parties often prioritizing their own interests over the needs of the public. This scenario has been erroneously interpreted by one political party as an issue beyond the current government's control, pointing to a previous government's failings. Meanwhile, the other party lags in protesting, raising questions about their priorities.
The recent job market recovery following the coronavirus pandemic is another factor that contributes to this silent protest. Indians are more focused on securing employment rather than protesting current economic hardships.
Despite recognizing the rising cost of living, the public's reluctance to protest is driven by a realistic understanding of how political and economic systems function in their country. While protests can have a catalytic effect, they often face opposition rhetoric that can label protestors as agents of opposition parties, funded by foreign entities. This climate of fear and reprisal significantly reduces the likelihood of public demonstrations.
Conclusion
The current fuel price hike in India has sparked a significant public debate, highlighting the economic disparity and political apathy. While the silence from the public is sometimes misinterpreted as apathy, it is driven by a realistic understanding of the political and economic systems in place. As fuel prices continue to rise, the priority of securing employment amid rising costs remains at the forefront of citizens' minds.
Keywords:
- Petrol price
- Fuel price hike
- Indian taxation